Pharrell Williams calls for federal investigation after cousin was shot dead by police

Pharrell Williams has called for a federal investigation into the death of his cousin, Donovon Lynch, after he was shot by police. 

The singer marked his 48^th birthday by sharing a memorial post to his cousin, telling his followers: ‘Thank you God for my 48th lap around the Sun.

‘This one is symbolic and a first because I had to speak at my cousin’s funeral, and was choked up with emotions. Too many unanswered City and State questions.

‘Respectfully, I am calling for a Federal investigation. I also humbly ask that you all keep the family in prayer. His name is Donovon Wayne Lynch.’

The 25-year-old was killed on March 26 in an officer-related shooting in Virginia Beach, Virginia. 

Two people including Lynch and at least eight others were injured during three separate shootings near the oceanfront. 

Pharrell wrote at the time: ‘The loss of these lives is a tragedy beyond measure. My cousin Donovon was killed during the shootings. He was a bright light and someone who always showed up for others.

‘It is critical my family and the other victims’ families get the transparency, honesty and justice they deserve. 

‘Virginia Beach is the epitome of hope and tenacity and, as a community, we will get through this and come out even stronger.’

Virginia Beach Police Department have said that Lynch was ‘brandishing a handgun at the time of the shooting’, following interviews with the officer involved, an officer who witness the incident and an independent witness. 

Police chief Paul Neudigate said Lynch was killed during ‘a police intervention shooting,’ adding that the responding officers’ body-worn cameras were not turned on. 

The officer involved in the shooting that resulted in Lynch’s death has been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation, which police have said is standard procedure.

Lynch had been a student-athlete at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise, playing on the school’s football team as an offensive lineman in 2017 and 2018 and described himself as a ‘digital creator’ and entrepreneur.

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